Survey of Atypical Antipsychotic Medication Use by Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists.

Background: Atypical antipsychotics could be replacing traditional antipsychotics in the treatment of childhood disorders. Method: A postal survey was conducted of Child Psychiatrists in a region of the United Kingdom to evaluate their use of atypical antipsychotics for psychotic and non-psychotic conditions. Results: 97% of respondents reported prescribing atypical antipsychotics and at least 65% did so for non-psychotic indications although several concerns were raised. Differences in prescribing and monitoring practices between Community and Specialist services were noted. Conclusions: Atypical antipsychotics appear to play a significant role in current child psychiatry practice. Further discussions and research needs to occur about their use and guidelines produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]